THE INTEGRATION OF BELIEFS IN BUDDHIST RITUALS: A CASE STUDY OF CONTEMPORARY SONGKRAN FESTIVAL

Abstract

This academic article aims to examine the phenomenon of belief integration in Buddhist rituals of contemporary Songkran festival. The study analyzes the transformation and adaptation of traditional rituals that blend with local beliefs and modern culture. The findings reveal that current Songkran festival demonstrates an integration of traditional Buddhist beliefs, local beliefs, and contemporary culture, resulting in new ritual forms that reflect the adaptation of Buddhism in modern Thai society. However, these changes maintain the core Buddhist values despite modifications in their expression to align with changing social contexts.